My takeaway from the Denver show 7.16.14

[jrnyman28]

Thanks to my mom, I finally gave Arnel and the guys a live shot. Glad I did.

First, Tower of Power was solid even though I am not familiar with their catalog. And Steve Miller was great. Amazing to see a man pushing 70 who pretty much just stands there can still command the stage. However, we spent a lot of time laughing at his back up dancer...sorry, singer. But having never seen Steve Miller play before, this was what I was most interested in.

Now for Journey, seeing Deen sing Mother, Father was worth the price of admission. Actually, Deen it's a joy to watch Deen play, period.

Glad to see 2 songs from Eclipse still in the set. Regardless of how they went over I think it is important that the band keeps pushing new material. Sadly that does not include Augeri era material, or Revelation for that matter. Also liked seeing the band talk to the crowd. (Even if Jon's speech sounded a little scripted like Mark Wahlberg near the end of Rock Star.) Journey seems to have learned to give their singer breaks. There were 4 opportunities for Arnel to rest the voice. And several wardrobe changes. Arnel hit the stage with all the energy and aerials I have heard about. But it only lasted through the 3rd song. I think the altitude still kicked his ass. Other than some unfortunate feedback on his mic (most inopportune during Open Arms ) he was in strong voice. Now, I may prefer Augeri, but there is no question that Arnel's voice is stronger.

I enjoyed Jon's solo / medley but it teased me to a lot of great songs that I wanted to hear. But we understand there just isn't time for them all.

And wow. Confetti canon. ( Arnel's weakest point was probably LTS because I don't think he "gets" the blues. Still proficient though.

It took Journey 15 years, but it was very cool seeing them play to a packed arena this size.

All in all, a very good show. I was not as put off by Arnel as I had been in earlier live footage. He sounds good, his appreciation and sincerity are infectious. And he certainly appears to have a few years left in the tank.

(Hopefully the 2nd time is the charm posting this, the 1st draft was better.)

[The_Noble_Cause]

Great review. Same way I felt last time I saw the band. Say what you will about Arnel's stage presence, but he brings it vocally.